Diabetes And Dental Complications

Diabetes is a systemic disease that affects the natural ability of the body to process sugar. As such, diabetes often results to high blood sugar level that causes unwanted health complications to various parts of the body, including the eyes, nerves, kidneys, heart – and the mouth is not an exception.

Oral Complications

People who are suffering from diabetes are at a significantly greater risk of developing a number of oral health anomalies. Among the most prominent of which include:

Dry mouth. Diabetics who remain unable to properly control their blood sugar levels are most likely to suffer from xerostomia. Popularly referred to as dry mouth, xerostomia easily is a gateway condition to more serious dental anomalies such as mouth soreness, ulcers, infections, and tooth decay.

Gum disease. A constantly growing body of research cites the strong link between gum disease and diabetes. And it goes both ways. On one end, the already compromised resistance of the body against any form of infection allows gum disease to develop among diabetics more often and at more severe level compared to patients who don’t have the disease. Conversely, it appears that by keeping gum disease under control diabetic patients are able to control their blood sugar level more efficiently.

Fungal infections. Diabetes compromises the natural ability of the body to ward off all kinds of infection, not only those that results from bacteria. As such, diabetics are also more susceptible to developing fungal infections. Among the most telling symptoms of fungal infections include mouth sores and persisting difficulty in swallowing.

Dentist On The Gold Coast

People who suffer from diabetes typically require so much more than practicing good oral hygiene. While brushing, flossing, and rinsing remains essential to maintaining good oral healthcare, professional dental upkeep becomes an imperative among patients who suffer from diabetes. This mainly includes dental checkups, periodontal screenings, and professional dental cleanings.

For exceptional dental solutions, visit your local Dentist On The Gold Coast at Main Beach Dental. Main Beach Dental provides the local Gold Coast community and its surrounding regions with only the very best treatments modern dentistry has to offer. Claim your FREE dental consultation by calling us at (07) 5503 1177, or simply by booking an appointment online.

Author: Dr. Janette Candia (Dentist)

Dr. Janette Candia graduated in dentistry in 1991. She is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner regulation Agency and the New Zealand Dental Council. She is also a member of Australian Society of Implant Dentistry and the Australian Academy of Dento-Facial Aesthetics. She has practiced dentistry in Australia and New Zealand.